The Mighty Beast:
A Glimpse into Automotive History
In the early 20th century, the quest for speed and power in the automotive world was reaching new heights. During this era of innovation and competition, the Fiat S76 emerged as a symbol of engineering prowess and a testament to the relentless pursuit of speed. Also known as the “Beast of Turin,” the Fiat S76 stands as a captivating chapter in the history of automobiles.
Read more for more information and free STL file to print this lovely (one of my favourites) model.
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Origins and Purpose
The Fiat S76 was created with a specific goal in mind: to break the land speed record. Born in 1911, this colossal machine was designed by the brilliant engineer, Ernest Eldridge, with the intention of surpassing the then-current record set by the “Blitzen-Benz.” The Blitzen-Benz, a German automobile, held the record with a top speed of 141.7 mph.
Technical Marvels
The Fiat S76 was a behemoth, featuring a massive 28.5-liter inline-four engine. The powerplant was capable of producing a staggering 300 horsepower, a remarkable figure for its time. The engine was equipped with four valves per cylinder and a single overhead camshaft, showcasing cutting-edge engineering for the era. To put things into perspective, the average car of the time had an engine size of around 3 to 4 liters.
The vehicle’s sheer size was awe-inspiring. The Fiat S76 boasted a wheelbase of 4.3 meters and a total length of 5.5 meters, making it one of the largest automobiles ever built. Its weight, around 3 tons, further emphasized its monumental presence.
Land Speed Record Attempts
The Fiat S76 made its first attempt at the land speed record in 1911 at the Brooklands racetrack in England. Despite its immense power, the attempt was unsuccessful due to a combination of mechanical issues and the challenging conditions of the track.
In 1913, a second attempt took place at the same venue, and this time, the Fiat S76 managed to reach a top speed of 135.5 mph, falling short of the record. Despite coming close, the record remained elusive for the Beast of Turin.
Legacy and Rediscovery
After its unsuccessful attempts, the Fiat S76 faded into obscurity. However, in the 21st century, automotive enthusiasts and historians developed a renewed interest in vintage and historic vehicles. The Beast of Turin was rediscovered in a derelict state in Australia, and a dedicated team of enthusiasts embarked on a mission to restore this automotive marvel to its former glory.
Today, the Fiat S76 is not only a testament to the ambition and engineering of its time but also a living piece of history, meticulously restored and showcased at various automotive events around the world. Its roaring engine and colossal presence continue to captivate audiences, reminding us of the audacious spirit that fueled the pursuit of speed in the early days of the automotive industry.
In conclusion, the Fiat S76, with its monstrous engine and daring attempts at the land speed record, remains an icon of automotive history. Its story serves as a reminder of the relentless pursuit of innovation and speed that has driven the automotive industry forward for over a century.
I made this 3d model specificly for 3d printing. It has moving wheels, steering wheel, front suspension, axles, interior details etc.
The engine has 4 actual pistons inside the motor which are connected to the crank handle, therefore turn when you turn the handle. There are also gears that engage the engine shaft to the chain pulley and the rear wheels.
There are two sets of wheels: with straight spokes or bicycle-cross spokes. You can choose and print either of them or mixed if you like, as they are in my renderings.
The length is around 210mm to fit most 3d printers. If you have a larger or smaller printer, you might scale before print as you wish for course.
The pistons and crank are simplified for easier 3d printing, assembly and operation.
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